LOS ANGELES – One week into their college careers, a number of freshmen have made good first impressions at UCLA.

"The game's not too big for them," Coach Rick Neuheisel said. "It's a bunch of guys trying to get to the front of the line. They're learning and even though they're making mistakes, they're making them fast."

"This class from top to bottom is absolutely excellent," Neuheisel said. "If we can continue to put these classes together, UCLA football's going to be on the map before much time passes."

One player who has especially caught Neuheisel's eye is 6-foot-4, 318-pound Ward, who has been lauded for holding his own against the Bruins' sizable defensive line. He even has gotten the best of defensive end Datone Jones on occasion.

"I think Chris Ward can be a possible contributor (right away)," Neuheisel said. "He's a smart young guy, and he's really physical and he's got a great anchor. You always worry about strength with young offensive linemen. Can they anchor when they're getting bull-rushed? He's been able to do that."

Neuheisel said ideally he won't call upon Ward's services immediately, though that might not be an option given recent developments.

Tackle Mike Harris has been suspended for the season opener because of a violation of team rules, and left tackle-guard Jeff Baca is out indefinitely because of a stress reaction in his right leg. He also is academically ineligible and awaiting an NCAA ruling on his appeal.

MARSH SHARP

UCLA also has a freshman defensive lineman who might be called upon soon.

"I think Cassius Marsh is going to surprise some people in his freshman year," defensive line coach Todd Howard said. "He's showing some fire and urgency. He's an excellent athlete and he has that desire. I anticipate him being in the mix."

Howard said the 6-4, 285-pound Marsh already cleared one of the biggest hurdles for a freshmen: "I think he's physically able to play as a freshman, just like Brian Price was.

"In high school, 90 percent of the guys you're going against are not going to be playing in college. (Now) you're going against guys that are just as big or as strong as you, especially as a freshman. That's the curve, the strength."

NOTES

The Bruins practiced in pads for the first time Friday. They will practice twice today, from 9-11 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. The second session will include a 30- to 40-play scrimmage. ...

Quarterback Kevin Prince (oblique) missed practice for the third consecutive day. He said he hopes to return Sunday or Monday. ...

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